Cyclone Fina Strikes Australia’s Northern Territory, Leaves Thousands Without Power

Cyclone Fina Hits Australia’s Northern Territory

Cyclone Fina swept through Australia’s Northern Territory over the weekend, unleashing destructive winds and causing widespread power outages across Darwin. The severe tropical system passed dangerously close to the capital city late Saturday, prompting extensive infrastructure damage but fortunately resulting in no reported casualties.

Darwin Faces Fierce Winds and Power Disruptions

Classified as a category three cyclone , Fina generated peak wind gusts of around 205 km/h , strong enough to damage roofs, uproot trees and sever power lines. Roughly 19,000 residents experienced electricity outages as the storm passed through. Several roads were flooded, leading authorities to request that residents stay indoors and avoid dangerous debris and fallen electrical infrastructure.

Swift Emergency Mobilisation

Emergency services and local authorities coordinated a rapid response effort, prioritising power restoration and infrastructure checks. Darwin International Airport, which had suspended operations as a safety measure, began preparing to reopen once weather conditions eased. Officials praised public preparedness, noting that early warnings and adherence to safety advisories helped minimise risks during the cyclone’s peak intensity.

Cyclone Fina in Historical Context

For long-time residents, Fina recalled memories of Cyclone Tracy (1974) , which devastated Darwin. Although significantly weaker than Tracy, Fina’s category three status was still capable of causing serious damage. The Bureau of Meteorology later confirmed that the system weakened as it moved inland, lowering immediate threats but leaving behind notable structural and environmental impacts.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Cyclone Fina was a category three storm.

• Peak wind speeds reached 205 km/h .

• 19,000 people in Darwin lost electricity.

• Darwin Airport temporarily halted operations.